Incidents of domestic violence increase by 38% during the World Cup

As the 2018 World Cup kicks off and as the excitement and anticipation rises across the world there is a much darker side that needs to be addressed. Research by Lancaster University criminologist Dr Stuart Kirby has shown that during previous World Cups domestic violence incidents increased by 38% when England lost. It also rose by 26% when they won.

There is a clear link between drug and alcohol consumption and domestic abuse. Research by Violence Against Women found that between 25% and 50% of those who perpetrate domestic abuse have been drinking at the time of assault. We want to reach out to people that may be accessing support for their or someone else’s drug or alcohol use to make sure they know that there is support available.

“The abuse was often worse during days when his football team were playing and he would go on binges, drinking heavily and taking cocaine. If I didn’t say the right thing, regardless if his team won or lost, then he would change and take his aggression out on my son or me.

“Now I am no longer in the relationship I am slowly getting my confidence back. It was such a relief when I started talking to someone about it, realising that I did have the power to change my situation.”

Pam Menzies-Banton, Area Manager at Blenheim, has worked in the field for 33 years and has seen the damage that domestic violence can do to a family:

“I came up with the idea for this campaign after hearing that domestic abuse rate go up during the World Cup, this is due to the perpetrator consuming more alcohol than usual and emotions are high win, lose or draw. Perpetrators are more likely to strike out on their partners and family.

“By taking the first step and talking to a support worker or national charities such as the National Domestic Violence Helpline, run by Women’s Aid and Refuge, can lift someone out of a very dangerous situation. I want to encourage everyone suffering from domestic abuse to make that phone call or speak to a professional. There is support available and we can help you.”

If you are experiencing domestic violence then there is free and confidential support available.

National 24 hour Helpline – 0808 2000 247

National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0800 999 5428

If you know someone that is using drugs or alcohol problematically and need support then our services can help or read our frequently asked questions.

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Blenheim currently provides services across 11 London boroughs. If we don’t have services in your area, there’s lots more help available. Find out where else you can get help with drug and alcohol issues.